2011 Nissan Altima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 241 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 16th highest complaint count among 26 Altima model years with reports.
Of the 2011 reports, 11 involved a crash and 5 involved a fire. 9 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
SuspensionJul 19, 2011
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN ALTIMA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 25, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011 AT THE CANTON, MISSISSIPPI PLANT. THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BOLT TO BECOME LOOSE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, CREATING A RATTLING NOISE AND VIBRATION.
IF THE BOLT COMES OUT COMPLETELY, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLTS AND NUTS AND TIGHTEN THEM TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Campaign 11V371000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
241 reports, newest first.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jun 3, 2026
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Engine Control Module (ECM) is malfunctioning, triggering persistent P0101 codes related to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This specific issue is addressed in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin DE97AA, which recommends an ECM reprogramming. The component is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. ⸻ • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? When the vehicle is at a complete stop and I attempt to accelerate, it becomes jumpy and unresponsive, refusing to accelerate properly. This creates a serious safety hazard, especially when trying to merge into traffic or cross intersections, as I am unable to match the speed of other vehicles. This increases the risk of being rear-ended or causing an accident due to unexpectedly slow acceleration. ⸻ • Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. An independent mechanic diagnosed the issue and confirmed the code P0101. After reviewing Nissan’s official TSB DE97AA, they advised me to go to a Nissan dealership to have the ECM reprogrammed as outlined in the bulletin. ⸻ • Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic, but not yet by the manufacturer. The dealership is aware of the issue but has refused to perform the repair without payment. ⸻ • Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes. The Check Engine Light is consistently triggered by code P0101, and the traction control warning light also comes on when the issue is active. The symptoms appeared recently and continue to recur even after the code is reset by standard non-dealership methods like unplugging the battery.
Power train, Feb 25, 2026
Drive axle suddenly not functioning properly, caused dangerous conditions to stop the car while driving on highway.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 12, 2025
This is the second nissan altima iv owed an the problem eatch one iv had is that were the idler tensioner pully gose and bolts to brakes so there for you cant put the idler tensioner pully back on
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jul 3, 2025
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Engine Control Module (ECM) is malfunctioning, triggering persistent P0101 codes related to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This specific issue is addressed in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin DE97AA, which recommends an ECM reprogramming. The component is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. ⸻ • How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? When the vehicle is at a complete stop and I attempt to accelerate, it becomes jumpy and unresponsive, refusing to accelerate properly. This creates a serious safety hazard, especially when trying to merge into traffic or cross intersections, as I am unable to match the speed of other vehicles. This increases the risk of being rear-ended or causing an accident due to unexpectedly slow acceleration. ⸻ • Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. An independent mechanic diagnosed the issue and confirmed the code P0101. After reviewing Nissan’s official TSB DE97AA, they advised me to go to a Nissan dealership to have the ECM reprogrammed as outlined in the bulletin. ⸻ • Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic, but not yet by the manufacturer. The dealership is aware of the issue but has refused to perform the repair without payment. ⸻ • Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes. The Check Engine Light is consistently triggered by code P0101, and the traction control warning light also comes on when the issue is active. The symptoms appeared recently and continue to recur even after the code is reset.
Other or unspecified, Feb 13, 2025
There is issue with sunroof drainage tubs causing rain to soak the floor of car. This definitely malfunction or inadequate problem with drainage tubs and sunroof parts with Nissans. I took it to the dealership and car collision repair shop and was told this is high reoccurring issue with Nissan sunroofs, but no recalls have been given, and I have to pay out pocket to get fixed. At 1st was told just get the drains cleaned out and you shouldn't have that problem again. The issue has progressed and now I have paid for drains to get unclogged 2x so far in one year and keep happening every time its alot of rain at one time. My only option I'm told is to keep getting drains cleaned and unclogged pay out of pocket or get another car without sunroof. I have gotten this done 2 years in row, that's getting too expensive to pay. That's not fair when you know it's problem with these drains and don't do nothing to fix issues. I like cars with sunroofs and have no control over when it rains. I should be able to have a car in 2025 with sunroof and not have this problem. Please help with this issue with factory sunroofs made in original cars not added. Make better drainage system for sunroofs in Nissan and all cars.
Other or unspecified, Jun 17, 2024
I have complained to Nissan that the dash in the car is literally melting. It started around 2014 when I noticed it was having a sticky texture and because of this it creates a glare in the windshield that makes it hard to see. Over the years it has only gotten worse and the dash is literally crumbling. I read online where they have had this issue before. I have tried to get help locally but I am lost no one will help me. This is a really bad safety issue!
Visibility/wiper, Apr 29, 2024
I brought my car to Florida 2 years ago and notices my dashboard getting very shiny and sticky. Now the dash is cracking in many areas. The glare off the dash board shining on the windshield makes it a dangerous situation. I called Nissan and they said it is a common problem in years 2005-2012 and there is nothing they can do. I googled it and there are many complaints online regarding this problem. A 13 y/o car that was garaged for 11 years in the NE and now parked underneath a parking garage should not have this problem. It is definitely a defect in manufacturing that is causing a safety issue and a diminished value issue.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Apr 19, 2024
While driving it's difficult for the car to shift gears, also a burning smell comes from the engine after driving long distance.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 31, 2024
Unknown. My car is making a whining noise & no matter how much i push the gas pedal it won’t accelerate. Sometimes it works but mostly it won’t.
Air bags, Jan 18, 2024
Airbag sensor flashing. Seems to be a very common issue and no recall. Found tons of articles and YouTube videos.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Oct 4, 2023
It started about 2 months ago that the RPM was revving when it came to the gears shifting. I would accelerate and the car would barely move and the transmission was making a whirring sound. The Service Engine Soon light came on so I took my car to O Reilys and the code for the stepper motor came back. I had the stepper motor replaced in my transmission but I am having the same issue. My Mechanic told me that my Transmission is failing and I would need a brand new one.
Other or unspecified, Aug 15, 2023
REAR SUB FRAME IS RUSTED OUT AND WILL NOT PASS STATE INSPECTION. YES IT IS AVAILABE FOR INSPECTION. FRAME COULD BREAK AT ANY TIME AND CAUSE A ACCIDENT .
Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 1, 2023
I was on my way to work driving on the freeway and suddenly I felt a sort of shaking from the car. I then exited the freeway and approached a red light. When the light turned green, my car moved some but then was stalled so I was stuck in the middle of an intersection. Luckily, I wasn’t too far from my job and I was able to eventually ease my way the next few miles. I was later told by a mechanic that it was my transmission that needed to be replaced .
Seat belts, Structure, Jun 12, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that water was leaking from the bottom of the front driver’s and passenger side doors. Additionally, the seat belt warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not under warranty. No further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
Other or unspecified, May 15, 2023
Dash is melting- it is causes an extreme shine reflecting on the windshield and extremely sticky. In the sun, full sun or a cloudy day, it causes a large glare in the direct line of sight. It is very unsafe to drive. It spans the entire dash. There is no escaping the glare during the day.
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was jerking with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact disconnected and reconnected the battery and the mass air flow sensor to correct the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The contact related the failure to Emissions Recall Campaign Number: R1720 (Non-Methane Organic Gases (NMOG) Engine Control Module (ECM) Reprogram) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Suspension, Feb 22, 2023
Loud noise from driver-side rear while driving. I discovered the rear crossmember (aka subframe) is badly corroded and there is a complete break/failure of the unit. This is unsafe. I have worked on cars for over 40 years and I have never seen such an inexcusable failure.
Power train, Dec 22, 2022
Hi my Nissan has 120k miles son it and the transmission is completely wrong don’t go more than 30 mph I take it to the shop to inspect and they told me that it need to be replace. It has code p1778 and code p0868 they told me that the transmission has no oil presure that it was a mechanical problem inside the transmission and that it was really common on that car becouse the cvt transmission
Steering, Dec 18, 2022
While driving on the highway the steering wheel locked keeping me from maneuvering the steering wheel. Independent service center diagnostics confirmed it was the power steering pump and sensor. Let the vehicle run into the curb. Then power steering fluid is still leaking out. When taken to the dealership they said to take it back to the independent service to have them find out where the leak is coming from. The dealership said it could be the copper screw or another part of the power steering.
Electrical system, Nov 21, 2022
I am sending this email concerning a recall that is affecting my vehicle. I dropped the car off as scheduled on 10-10-22. The initial adviser I spoke with in scheduling the appointment at the Darcars Nissan dealership on Indianola drive in Rockville confirmed the recall repair would be done in a day. However, after dropping the vehicle off, I was informed the repairs would be done in more than a day. Even though they intend to provide the loaner vehicle for a day. Since the repairs will be more than a day, I, as the victim/customer, will be responsible for paying for any extra day of rental for the vehicle while the vehicle is being on recall repaired. I then rejected the assumptive proposal of being responsible for paying for rentals if the repairs take more than a day, which was different from what I was initially told. I drove my vehicle to Nissan to have the repairs done, and the initial discussion upon arrival was a request for me to pay for the diagnosis; I inquired why will I be paying for the diagnosis when my recall was determined to be an electronic issue. However, I told them okay, I will pay for the diagnosis if your diagnosis results indicate the keys are not reading the car system or, as you claim, are not related to the recall. Unfortunately, Darcars could not provide an accurate diagnosis report; instead, they wrote a summary of what they claimed to have done with the vehicle repair process. They also claimed the car could not start, and the repair was done in auto mode. After approximately a week that I had driven my vehicle to Nissan for a recall, I got a call from Nissan, saying the car could not start, and we needed you to authorize us to change the battery. You must also pay for the diagnosis, parts, labor, and key programming. These are the charges; Labor----------------------------------- 149.99 Shop supplies --------------------------- 26.25 DRC document retention charge--------- 1.99 EPA Compliance charge -------------------- 32.
Firerelated, Oct 19, 2022, fire
The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at normal speed, he noticed that smoke started to spread throughout the vehicle when the vehicle inadvertently caught fire. The check engine warning light illuminated. The air bags failed to deploy. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. The fire department was notified and extinguished the fire. The contact was unaware if a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 12, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she and her passengers experienced nausea and dizziness symptoms. The car-sick symptoms went away after turning off the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 179,780.
Power train, Engine, Sep 14, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle inadvertently decelerated. The contact stated that the vehicle performed as if the gear shifter was in neutral(N). The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacture was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Air bags, Aug 13, 2022, crash
Vehicle hydroplaned from heavy rain and wet road into a ditch alongside of the main highway & the airbags did NOT deploy. This IS a safety malfunction in the airbag system on a 2011 Nissan Altima.
Other or unspecified, Jun 22, 2022
My car is a 2011 Nissan Altima 2.5 s model. In the last couple of years, my dash board has cracks all over it. My research found out that is an issue also with Lexus and Toyota. There has been a number of cases with Nissans and there were 2 separate class action law suite on this issue: https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/closed-settlements/florida-nissan-altima-dashboard-defect-class-action-settlement/ and https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2021/nissan-melting-dashboard-lawsuit.shtml I called Nissan and spoke with a Lydia who asked me to take my car to a dealer to document the issue and they did. I called back Nissan and was told by a supervisor that they will not be helping me with this. Thus the cause of this complaint.